Storm Washes Thousands of Starfish Ashore on Sylt's Beaches

The natural phenomenon, caused by strong winds in the North Sea, is a recurring event with minimal impact on starfish populations.

Thousands of mostly young starfish have been found stranded on the Weststrand of Sylt following recent storms in the North Sea.
The phenomenon occurs when strong waves dislodge starfish from underwater surfaces like mussel beds, leaving them unable to cling to sandy seabeds.
Experts, including Sylts' conservation ambassador Charlie Esser, confirm that this is a normal and periodic event with no significant effect on the starfish population.
The starfish, which are only a few centimeters in diameter, are not a substantial food source for predators like seagulls due to their low nutritional value.
Meteorologists predict continued stormy weather in the region, with heavy winds disrupting ferry services and bringing potential gale-force conditions to coastal areas.